Perlan Restaurant & Café

Description

Perlan Restaurant & Café is one of those places that makes you stop mid-bite just to take in the view. Sitting high above Reykjavík inside the city’s iconic glass dome, this revolving restaurant offers diners a 360-degree panorama of Iceland’s capital, the surrounding mountains, and the endless North Atlantic horizon. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s an experience that combines fine dining, art, and science under one shimmering roof. I still remember walking in for the first time and thinking, “This feels like dining inside a snow globe.”

The restaurant’s atmosphere strikes a rare balance between casual comfort and refined elegance. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a quiet dinner after exploring the city or celebrate a special occasion with someone you care about. The design feels modern yet warm, with soft lighting reflecting off the glass dome and the slow rotation of the floor creating a gentle sense of motion. You don’t really notice it at first, but halfway through your meal, the view has completely changed. It’s a little bit magical.

Food-wise, Perlan leans into Icelandic roots with a modern European twist. The menu changes seasonally, which makes sense given the country’s strong connection to local ingredients. Expect dishes like fresh Arctic char, tender lamb, and creative vegetarian options that showcase Iceland’s produce in surprising ways. The desserts are worth saving room for too—rich, inventive, and beautifully plated. And if you’re a coffee person like me, you’ll be happy to know they take their brews seriously. The café section is perfect for a mid-afternoon break, with excellent coffee, cakes, and a surprisingly good tea selection.

It’s not all about the food, though. The restaurant shares space with Perlan’s museum and exhibition center, which explores Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, and natural wonders. You can easily spend a few hours wandering through the exhibits before heading upstairs for dinner. That combination of learning and dining makes it a truly unique stop for travelers who want more than just another meal out.

Of course, no place is perfect. Service can sometimes feel a bit slow during peak times, and prices are on the higher side compared to other Reykjavík restaurants. But then again, you’re paying for one of the best views in Iceland—and honestly, it’s worth it. The staff are friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the food consistently impresses. If you’re visiting Reykjavík, Perlan Restaurant & Café deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Key Features

• Revolving dining floor offering 360° panoramic views of Reykjavík and surrounding landscapes
• Seasonal menu blending Icelandic ingredients with modern European cuisine
• Cozy yet elegant atmosphere with live music on select evenings
• Exceptional desserts, great coffee, and an extensive tea selection
• Full bar with wine, cocktails, beer, and happy hour options
• Family-friendly environment with a kids’ menu and high chairs available
• Wheelchair-accessible facilities, including entrances, restrooms, and seating
• Free parking and Wi-Fi for guests
• Reservations recommended, especially for dinner and sunset hours
• Located within the Perlan museum complex, combining dining with cultural exploration

Best Time to Visit

If you’re after those postcard-perfect views, aim for dinner around sunset—especially in summer when the sky turns shades of pink and gold that seem almost unreal. During the winter months, an evening visit might even reward you with a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing above the city. I once saw them faintly flicker through the glass dome while sipping hot chocolate—it felt like something out of a dream.

Lunch visits are great too, particularly if you want to avoid crowds and take in the daylight panorama without the dinner rush. The café is open throughout the day, making it a perfect stop for coffee and dessert after exploring the museum below. Weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends draw more locals and tourists alike. If you’re planning a special occasion, book a table well in advance—sunset tables fill up fast.

How to Get There

Perlan Restaurant & Café sits atop Öskjuhlíð Hill, just a short drive or walk from downtown Reykjavík. Most visitors take a taxi or a quick bus ride, but if you’re feeling energetic (and the weather’s behaving), the uphill walk from the city center takes about 20–30 minutes and rewards you with some lovely views along the way. There’s a free parking lot for those driving, and it’s easy to find using any GPS or local map app.

If you’re joining one of the sightseeing tours that include Perlan’s exhibitions, you’ll likely end up right at the entrance anyway. The restaurant is located on the top floor of the glass dome—just take the elevator up and prepare to be wowed as the city unfolds beneath you.

Tips for Visiting

First things first: make a reservation. Especially if you’re hoping for one of those window seats with the best views. The restaurant rotates slowly, so technically you’ll see everything no matter where you sit, but there’s something special about having an unobstructed view of the city lights or the distant mountains while you dine.

Dress comfortably but nicely. Reykjavík’s vibe is relaxed, but the setting here calls for something a little more polished—think smart casual rather than formal. And if you’re visiting in winter, bring a warm coat for the walk outside afterward; the wind atop the hill can be brisk, to put it mildly.

Budget-wise, expect to spend a bit more than average for Reykjavík dining, but remember that you’re getting more than just a meal—it’s a full sensory experience. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll enjoy the novelty of the revolving floor and the nearby museum exhibits. Families are welcome, and the staff are accommodating with younger guests.

For coffee lovers, skip the chain cafés downtown and come here for an afternoon treat. The café’s desserts are homemade and genuinely delicious—especially the chocolate cake, which I still think about sometimes. And if you’re into photography, bring your camera or phone fully charged. The glass dome offers some of the best panoramic shots in the city, especially at golden hour.

One more thing: take your time. Don’t rush through the meal. Let the rotation carry you around while you savor each bite and each view. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just exploring Reykjavík, Perlan Restaurant & Café gives you a taste of Iceland that’s both literal and visual. It’s one of those rare places that manages to feel grand and intimate at the same time—and that’s what makes it truly memorable.

Location

Places to Stay Near Perlan Restaurant & Café

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides